MusaThe pleasing thing for the Black Cats is that they are not in a position where they need to panic and that quality will need to be added if the right opportunities arise.
However, it won’t just be about arrivals, and although Sunderland won’t want to lose any key players, there are some on the periphery who may want to leave.
It would not be a surprise if Nazarius Rusin fell into that category.
Nazary Rusyn’s time at Sunderland so far
Sunderland brought the Ukrainian striker into their squad in the summer window of 2023 and on paper he seemed to be a decent reinforcement, fitting in with their transfer strategy.
Rusyn scored goals for Zorya in his home country, and before that he played for Dynamo Kyiv and Legia Warsaw.
Just a month after his transfer to Wearside, Rusyn was called up to the Ukrainian senior team, so it looked like the Black Cats had secured someone who was highly rated.
However, it has to be said that Rusyn’s championship didn’t turn out as planned.
Nazary Rusin is not in Regis Le Bris’ plans
The 26-year-old scored just two goals in 21 appearances last season, although it seemed unfair to write Rusyn off completely.
After all, it was a disastrous campaign for a club that had three different managers, so it was hardly the best environment for the player.
But while other players improved after the summer appointment of Regis Le Bris, Rusyn failed to establish himself as a regular.
The striker has made just six appearances this season, all as a reserve – his last on the pitch on 1 October.
With Wilson Isidor in his prime and Eliezer Mayenda and Aaron Connolly ahead of him, it is hard to expect Rusin’s fortunes to change this season.
A January transfer could suit Nazary Rusyne and Sunderland
The results show that Le Bris has made the right decision with his players, with the team top of the table and on course to fight for automatic promotion. It is therefore hard to see how Rusyn will get a chance to progress unless there is an injury crisis.
Therefore, a January transfer could suit all parties, which is what the striker must strive for if he wants to get his career back on track and start enjoying regular playing time.
Some may argue that Sunderland should keep Rusin, especially as they push for promotion, but he should already have the playing strength to cope with it.
In addition, their transfer strategy is focused on player development and resale. When they assess what is best for Rusyn’s value, they will surely understand that a move could help him as he wants to impress admirers before the summer window.
It’s a shame for Rusyn and Sunderland that it didn’t work out, and a separation could be best for all concerned when the window opens in the New Year.
Musa
